Cooking a medium rare steak can be a daunting task, especially for those who don’t have a thermometer to rely on. However, with a few simple techniques and a bit of practice, you can achieve a perfectly cooked medium rare steak every time. In this article, we’ll explore the different methods for cooking a medium rare steak without a thermometer, and provide you with some valuable tips and tricks to help you become a steak-cooking master.
Understanding the Basics of Steak Cooking
Before we dive into the different methods for cooking a medium rare steak, it’s essential to understand the basics of steak cooking. A medium rare steak is cooked to an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C), with a warm red color throughout. The steak should be cooked for a short period on each side, with a nice sear on the outside and a juicy, pink interior.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
The type of steak you choose can greatly impact the final result. Look for a high-quality steak with a good balance of marbling (fat distribution) and tenderness. Ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon are popular cuts of meat that are well-suited for medium rare cooking.
How to Select the Perfect Steak
When selecting a steak, look for the following characteristics:
- A good balance of marbling and tenderness
- A rich, beefy color
- A firm, springy texture
- A thickness of at least 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm)
Method 1: The Finger Test
The finger test is a simple and effective way to check the doneness of a steak without a thermometer. To perform the finger test, follow these steps:
- Touch the fleshy part of your palm, just below your thumb. This is what a rare steak feels like.
- Touch the tip of your thumb to the tip of your index finger. This is what a medium rare steak feels like.
- Touch the tip of your thumb to the tip of your middle finger. This is what a medium steak feels like.
- Touch the tip of your thumb to the tip of your ring finger. This is what a medium well steak feels like.
- Touch the tip of your thumb to the tip of your pinky finger. This is what a well-done steak feels like.
How to Apply the Finger Test to Your Steak
To apply the finger test to your steak, follow these steps:
- Press the steak gently with your finger, using the same pressure as you would when checking the doneness of the steak.
- Compare the feeling of the steak to the feeling of your palm or fingers.
- If the steak feels soft and squishy, it’s rare. If it feels firm and springy, it’s medium rare.
Method 2: The Sear and Flip Method
The sear and flip method is a popular technique for cooking a medium rare steak. This method involves searing the steak for a short period on each side, then finishing it off in the oven.
How to Sear a Steak
To sear a steak, follow these steps:
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over high heat.
- Add a small amount of oil to the pan and swirl it around.
- Place the steak in the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak.
- Use a pair of tongs or a spatula to flip the steak.
How to Finish the Steak in the Oven
To finish the steak in the oven, follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the steak on a baking sheet or oven-safe plate.
- Cook the steak in the oven for 5-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness.
Method 3: The Timing Method
The timing method is a simple and effective way to cook a medium rare steak. This method involves cooking the steak for a set amount of time on each side, based on the thickness of the steak.
How to Use the Timing Method
To use the timing method, follow these steps:
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over high heat.
- Add a small amount of oil to the pan and swirl it around.
- Place the steak in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak.
- Use a pair of tongs or a spatula to flip the steak.
Timing Guidelines for Medium Rare Steak
Here are some general timing guidelines for cooking a medium rare steak:
| Steak Thickness | Cooking Time per Side |
| — | — |
| 1 inch (2.5 cm) | 2-3 minutes |
| 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) | 3-4 minutes |
| 2 inches (5 cm) | 4-5 minutes |
Additional Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you cook the perfect medium rare steak:
- Use a hot pan: A hot pan is essential for achieving a nice sear on the steak.
- Don’t press down on the steak: Pressing down on the steak can squeeze out juices and make the steak tough.
- Use a cast-iron skillet: Cast-iron skillets retain heat well and can help to achieve a nice sear on the steak.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the steaks one at a time to ensure that they have enough room to cook evenly.
The Importance of Resting the Steak
Resting the steak is an essential step in the cooking process. When you rest the steak, you allow the juices to redistribute and the steak to retain its tenderness.
How to Rest a Steak
To rest a steak, follow these steps:
- Remove the steak from the pan and place it on a plate or cutting board.
- Tent the steak with foil to keep it warm.
- Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak.
By following these methods and tips, you can cook a perfectly medium rare steak without a thermometer. Remember to practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if it takes a few tries to get it right. With a bit of patience and practice, you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time.
What is the ideal cooking time for a medium rare steak?
The ideal cooking time for a medium rare steak depends on the thickness of the steak and the heat of the pan or grill. As a general rule, a 1-inch thick steak will take around 4-5 minutes per side to cook to medium rare. However, this time can vary depending on the specific steak and cooking method.
It’s also important to note that the steak will continue to cook a bit after it’s removed from the heat, so it’s better to err on the side of undercooking than overcooking. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to cook the steak for a shorter amount of time and then check its internal temperature or color to determine if it’s cooked to your liking.
How do I know when my steak is cooked to medium rare without a thermometer?
One way to check if your steak is cooked to medium rare without a thermometer is to use the finger test. To do this, press the steak gently with your finger. If it feels soft and squishy, it’s rare. If it feels firm, but still yielding to pressure, it’s medium rare. If it feels hard and springy, it’s medium or well done.
Another way to check is to look at the color of the steak. A medium rare steak will be pink in the center, but not red. The pink color should be evenly distributed throughout the steak, and the edges should be slightly browned. You can also check the juices that run out of the steak when you cut into it. If the juices are red, the steak is rare. If they’re pink, the steak is medium rare.
What type of steak is best for cooking medium rare?
The best type of steak for cooking medium rare is a high-quality steak with a good balance of marbling and tenderness. Ribeye, strip loin, and filet mignon are all good options. These steaks have a good amount of fat, which helps to keep them juicy and flavorful when cooked to medium rare.
Avoid using very lean steaks, such as sirloin or flank steak, as they can become dry and tough when cooked to medium rare. Also, avoid using steaks that are too thick, as they can be difficult to cook evenly.
How do I prevent my steak from becoming tough when cooking it medium rare?
To prevent your steak from becoming tough when cooking it medium rare, make sure to cook it over high heat. This will help to sear the outside of the steak quickly, locking in the juices and flavors. Also, avoid pressing down on the steak with your spatula, as this can squeeze out the juices and make the steak tough.
Another way to prevent toughness is to let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to relax, making it more tender and flavorful.
Can I cook a medium rare steak in the oven?
Yes, you can cook a medium rare steak in the oven. To do this, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the steak as desired, then place it on a baking sheet or oven-safe skillet. Cook the steak for 8-12 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Keep in mind that cooking a steak in the oven can be a bit tricky, as it’s easy to overcook the steak. To avoid this, use a timer and check the steak frequently to ensure it’s cooked to your liking.
How do I achieve a nice crust on my medium rare steak?
To achieve a nice crust on your medium rare steak, make sure to cook it over high heat. This will help to sear the outside of the steak quickly, creating a crispy crust. Also, use a small amount of oil in the pan, as this will help to create a nice crust.
Another way to achieve a nice crust is to use a cast-iron or stainless steel pan, as these retain heat well and can help to create a crispy crust. Avoid using non-stick pans, as they can prevent the steak from developing a nice crust.
Can I cook a medium rare steak on a grill?
Yes, you can cook a medium rare steak on a grill. To do this, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the steak as desired, then place it on the grill. Cook the steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Keep in mind that grilling can be a bit tricky, as the heat can vary depending on the grill and the steak. To avoid overcooking, use a timer and check the steak frequently to ensure it’s cooked to your liking.